Conference deliberates on future-ready curriculum, skill development and academic innovation
Diplomat Correspondent
Kathua: Government Degree College for Women, Kathua today successfully organised a one-day National Conference titled “Integrating AI into Curriculum: NEP 2020’s Vision for Future Skills”, focusing on the integration of Artificial Intelligence in higher education in line with the objectives of the National Education Policy 2020.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp followed by a Saraswati Vandana presented by the students. Principal, GDC Women Kathua, Dr. Savi Behl, welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in education, underscoring NEP 2020’s emphasis on innovation, creativity and skill-based learning.
The Chief Guest, MLA Kathua, Dr. Bharat Bhushan, appreciated the relevance of the conference theme and stressed the role of educational institutions in nurturing a technologically empowered and future-ready generation. The Guest of Honour, Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, JKAS, emphasized the importance of collaboration between academia and government for fostering innovative educational practices.
A major highlight of the inaugural session was the release of the Abstract Book containing 85 abstracts and the college newsletter IRAVATI (Volume 6). The keynote address was delivered by Prof. J. N. Baliya, Department of Education, Central University of Jammu, who highlighted the strategic role of Artificial Intelligence in curriculum design and emphasized the need for capacity building among educators and students.
The conference was attended by the Principals of Government Degree Colleges Mahanpur, Marheen and Hiranagar, along with the Managing Director and Principal of Spring Dales English Medium School, adding academic depth and strengthening inter-institutional collaboration.
The technical sessions featured expert lectures by Prof. (Dr.) Nitin Kumar Puri, Executive Director, NIELIT Ranchi, and Dr. Saurabh Shastri, University of Jammu. The sessions focused on emerging trends in Artificial Intelligence, skill-based education, NEP 2020, Sustainable Development Goals and the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. The conference witnessed the presentation of 151 research papers, including 97 offline and 54 online presentations, from institutions across the country in parallel sessions.
The valedictory session was graced by Additional Secretary, J&K Science and Technology Department, Jammu, Dr. Neelam Khajuria, who lauded the institution for promoting academic excellence, research orientation and innovation. The programme concluded with a Dogri folk dance presented by the students, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The conference was convened by Dr. Inderjeet Kour, while the proceedings were conducted by Dr. Poonam Sambyal and Dr. Mukesh Kumari. The valedictory vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Rachna Devi. The event concluded on a successful note, reaffirming GDC Women Kathua’s commitment to academic excellence, interdisciplinary dialogue and future-ready education.DD
